The completely revised and updated comprehensive guide to small wind energy systems
Skyrocketing energy costs and constant reminders of the impacts of conventional energy sources are making homeowners and businesses look at different ways to use energy more efficiently and to generate their own electricity to reduce fuel bills and their carbon footprint.
Power From the Wind is the completely revised and updated edition of the go-to guide for individuals and businesses interested in installing small wind energy systems. Written for the layperson, this practical guide provides an accurate and unbiased view of all aspects of small wind energy systems, including:
• Wind and wind energy system options
• Ways to assess wind resources at your site
• Wind turbines and towers
• Inverters and batteries
• Installation and maintenance of systems
• Costs and benefits of installing a wind system
Readers will gain the knowledge they need to make wise decisions during the design, purchase, and installation of small wind energy systems and to communicate effectively with wind system installers, and will be empowered to help make the smartest, most economical choices.
Dan Chiras is an internationally acclaimed author who has published over 30 books, including The Homeowner’s Guide to Renewable Energy and Power from the Sun. He is a certified wind site assessor and has installed several residential wind systems. He is Founder and Director of The Evergreen Institute, which offers workshops on residential renewable energy and green building.
By:
Dan Chiras
Imprint: New Society
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions:
Height: 228mm,
Width: 203mm,
Spine: 23mm
Weight: 717g
ISBN: 9780865718319
ISBN 10: 0865718318
Publication Date: 13 July 2017
Audience:
General/trade
,
ELT Advanced
,
ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active
PrefaceChapter 1: Introduction to Small-Scale Wind Energy .World Wind Energy ResourcesThe Pros and Cons of Wind EnergyThe Purpose of this BookOrganization of this BookChapter 2: Understanding Wind and Wind EnergyWhat is Wind?Offshore and Onshore WindsMountain-Valley Breezes Large-Scale Wind CurrentsWind from StormsFriction and Turbulence and Smart SitingThe Mathematics of Wind Power Closing ThoughtsChapter 3: Wind Energy SystemsComponents of a Wind Energy SystemWind Energy System Options Grid-Connected Systems with Battery BackupOff-Grid (Stand-Alone) Systems Hybrid Systems Choosing a Wind Energy SystemChapter 4: Wind Site Assessment Assessing Electrical DemandConservation and Efficiency First!Assessing Your Wind ResourceHow Much Electricity Will A Wind Turbine Produce? Does a Wind System Make Economic Sense?Putting It All Together Chapter 5: A Primer on Wind Generators The Anatomy of a Wind TurbineImprovements in Small Wind Turbines The Main Components of Wind TurbinesWhat to Look for When Buying a Wind Machine Other ConsiderationsBuilding Your Own Wind Machine ConclusionChapter 6: Towers and Tower InstallationTower OptionsHomebrew TowersTower KitsTower Anchors and Bases Safety First Siting a Tower Aircraft Safety and the FAA Protecting Against LightningChapter 7: Understanding Batteries What Types of Batteries Work Best? Will Any Lead-Acid Battery Work?Wiring a Battery BankSizing a Battery Bank Battery Maintenance and Safety Living with BatteriesChapter 8: InvertersBattery-Based Inverters for Off-Grid Systems Batteryless Grid-Tied InvertersMultifunction InvertersBuying an InverterConclusionChapter 9: Maintaining a Wind-Electric SystemWhat's RequiredClimbable TowersTilt-up Towers Final Inspections ConclusionChapter 10: Final Considerations: Zoning, Permits, Covenants, Utility Companies, Insurance and Buying a SystemZoning, Building Permits, and Restrictive Covenants Zoning Regulations Connecting to the Grid: Working with Your Local Utility Insurance RequirementsBuying a Wind Energy SystemParting Thoughts Endnotes Resource Guide Index About the AuthorA Note About the Publisher
Dan Chiras is founder and director of The Evergreen Institute's Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building, which offers workshops on residential renewable energy and green building. He speaks extensively on renewable energy, green building, and sustainable building. He is also the author of over 30 books, including The Homeowner's Guide to Renewable Energy and Power from the Sun. He lives and farms in Gerard, MO.
